Hi My name is Johnny Pachivas and I am doing a final assignment for St. Thomas University located in Miami Florida on your company’s culture. I must say, I am fascinated in all that you do and support. I was wondering id you also intend to somehow tie in nutrition with the “outdoors” enthusiast? you know, food that are green and sustainable organic NON GMO, sort of speak. Just a thought I was just imagining a terrific boost in a new audience that would become loyal to the cause. I live off of Monroe and west 11th and have come by the store several times. It was a pleasant experience.

Hi Johnny! Thank you for reaching out and selecting REI as the focus of your final assignment. It’s great to hear your thoughts on nutrition and how it connects to getting people outside. As you are likely aware, we currently offer a variety of all natural foods and snacks to fuel our members during their outdoor adventures, and we are constantly looking for new ways to provide sustainable products to the outdoor community. We will certainly keep this in mind as we move forward.

I love REI gear, but there’s honestly nothing I need right now. Is there a way for me to donate my REI Dividends to the REI Foundation or some other environmental stewardship program that REI supports? Thank you.

Hello, my name is Katie Hill and I am a freshman journalism student at Emerson College. I am doing a final project in one of my classes about the #optoutside movement, and had a few questions about the effect this movement had on the brand. Do you believe that this was a beneficial measure to take, in this day and age where commercialism takes over the holidays? Also, do you plan on making the #optoutside movement an annual occurrence?
Thank you!

Hi Katie, we’re flattered you chose #OptOutside for an academic project! Yes, the overwhelming response to #OptOutside proved beneficial because it resonated with our employees and members, and sparked a broader conversation about the benefits of the outdoors. We haven’t come to a decision on what #OptOutside looks like next year, but we will continue to find ways to encourage people to enjoy the outdoors.

Hello REI!!! My name is Kenny Suazo, 34yo from Austin, TX. I’m reaching out to ask my favorite store in the world for assistance in my upcoming ultra 02/6/16, Puerto Rico 150+ Miles Endurance Run(183 Miles). I’m very honored to be part of the few selected to partake in this race, running from the easternmost point to the westernmost point of Puerto Rico.

I’m sure REI must get hundreds of sponsorship request on a daily basis. However, my passion for running is immense and I’m using it to promote and raise money for the San Jorge’s Children’s Foundation of San Juan, Puerto Rico. The foundation helps in the medical attention a child needs.

I’m asking you to please assist me by possibly donating a pair of road shoes, headlamp and apparel for this magnificent ultra I will be running. In return, I will promote this amazing store my entire journey through Puerto Rico and thereafter. I will represent REI with the upmost respect, pride and appreciation. I will continue to be a loyal customer, as well as, continue to suggest REI to friends, family and fellow runners.

I hope you consider in providing the assistance I need to perform my best and help me get to the finish line. REI has never let me down with any merchandise I e purchased and I will always love REI over the competition.

Hi Kenny, we appreciate your loyalty to REI. Most of these requests are considered at the local level, so please head to your closest store and talk to them. You can also reach out to our Public Affairs department at publicaffairs@rei.com for further consideration. Best of luck with your ultra race.